How To Fix /PF1/MSG_PO_EH138 - Setting the original item return failed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /PF1/MSG_PO_EH -

• Message number: 138

• Message text: Setting the original item return failed

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /PF1/MSG_PO_EH138 - Setting the original item return failed ?

  The SAP error message /PF1/MSG_PO_EH138 with the description "Setting the original item return failed" typically occurs in the context of processing purchase orders, particularly when dealing with returns or adjustments to items in a purchase order.
  Cause:
  This error can arise due to several reasons, including:
  
  
  Data Inconsistencies: There may be inconsistencies in the data related to the purchase order or the items being returned. This could include mismatched quantities, incorrect item statuses, or issues with the original purchase order.
  
  
  Missing Information: Required fields or information may be missing in the return process, such as the return reason, return quantity, or other relevant details.
  
  
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary permissions to perform the return operation on the specified purchase order.
  
  
  System Configuration: There may be configuration issues in the SAP system that prevent the return process from being completed successfully.
  
  
  Document Status: The status of the original purchase order or the items may not allow for returns (e.g., if the order is already fully invoiced or closed).
  
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Data Consistency: Verify that the purchase order and item data are consistent. Ensure that the quantities being returned match the quantities that were originally received.
  
  
  Complete Required Fields: Ensure that all required fields for the return process are filled out correctly. This includes return reasons, quantities, and any other necessary information.
  
  
  Review Authorizations: Check if the user has the necessary authorizations to perform the return. If not, contact your SAP security administrator to grant the required permissions.
  
  
  Examine Document Status: Check the status of the original purchase order and items. If the order is closed or fully invoiced, you may need to take additional steps to process the return.
  
  
  Consult Configuration Settings: If the issue persists, consult with your SAP configuration team to review the settings related to purchase order returns. There may be specific configurations that need to be adjusted.
  
  
  Check for System Notes or Updates: Look for any SAP notes or updates that may address this specific error. Sometimes, SAP releases patches or notes that provide solutions for known issues.
  
  
  Debugging: If you have access to technical resources, consider debugging the process to identify the exact point of failure in the return process.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Search the SAP Support Portal for any relevant notes that might address this specific error message.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as ME21N (Create Purchase Order), ME22N (Change Purchase Order), and ME23N (Display Purchase Order) to navigate and troubleshoot purchase orders effectively.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to purchase order processing and returns for additional insights and best practices.
  
  If the issue continues after following these steps, it may be beneficial to engage with SAP support or your internal SAP support team for further assistance.